Rectocele, Cystocele & Enterocele - Related Conditions to a Prolapsed Uterus
When the supports to the pelvic floor are injured by childbirth or other causes,
only one pelvic organ may prolapse. However, more often than not several types of
pelvic organ prolapse are involved. These pelvic support defects are similar to
hernias and include the following:
- Rectocele (herniation of the rectum) - occurs when the tissue layers between the rectum
and the vagina weaken, allowing the rectum to herniate and cause a bulging into the back of the vagina.
- Cystocele (herniation of the bladder) - occurs when the tissues between the
bladder and the vagina weaken, allowing the bladder to bulge into the front of the vagina.
- Enterocele (herniation of the colon and small bowel) - occurs when the colon
and/or small bowel herniate into the upper part of the vaginal wall.
You may have one of these types of hernias alone or several at the same time.
Depending on their severity, these defects can cause abnormal functioning of the
bladder, rectum or vagina. As a result, you may experience urinary incontinence,
difficult bowel movements, and pelvic pain including pain during sexual intercourse.
Like other hernias, a rectocele, cystocele or enterocele can remain stable in size or
get larger. These pelvic floor defects require surgery to repair.
Therefore, if you undergo surgery to correct uterine prolapse, you may also have
several other prolapse procedures during the same operation. All of the damaged areas
should be repaired in order to ensure successful and lasting results. These procedures
may be performed via abdominal, vaginal or laparoscopic approaches or through a
combination. The exact technique used will depend on the type and severity of the
prolapse and on the surgeon's preference.
Because prolapse surgery can affect sexual function and your ability to have
children, it is important to discuss your needs and expectations with your doctor
as you develop a treatment plan.
